Separation anxiety-related behaviors in dogs increased 700% between 2020 and 2022, according to a recent study. This comes as no surprise when you consider the pandemic-induced fears, social distancing, and mandatory lockdowns, but such an unprecedented surge of pets affected by separation anxiety should sound an alarm bell for dog owners everywhere. We want to inspire conversations about how training can prevent this heartbreaking problem. 

Dependency is dangerous: Separation anxiety and canine quality of life

Dogs are pack animals who rely on us to create a positive, calm, comfortable, and safe home environment. Inadequate socialization, poor training, extreme emotional stress, and unusual or abrupt changes can have a rapid, negative, and long-lasting effect on a dog’s wellbeing and, ultimately, their lifespan.

Preventing separation anxiety is simpler and more successful than management after the fact. Here are five ways to create a confident canine and minimize your pup’s likelihood for developing separation anxiety.

#1: Build independence by crate training your dog

Dogs are social creatures who, because of our modern lifestyles, must learn to cope with being alone. While some dogs are naturally comfortable by themselves, others must be trained to develop the skill through gradual positive experiences.

Crate training is a life skill that teaches dogs not only that they can be comfortable alone, but also how to regulate their energy and control their impulses.  

The OC Working Dogs team recommends acclimating your puppy or dog to a crate as soon as possible after bringing them home. If your dog has a negative crate history, use the same training principles to teach them how to relax in a small room or exercise pen.

#2: Provide frequent and satisfying physical and mental exercise for your dog

Understimulated canines will naturally seek outlets for their pent-up energy. Unfortunately, they often resort to destructiveness, compulsive or repetitive actions (e.g., barking, chewing, over-grooming, circling, or reactivity), or attention-seeking behavior (i.e., clinginess). These behaviors can increase their anxiety and distress, making them impossible to leave alone.

Regular physical activity allows your dog to stretch their legs, burn energy, behave naturally (e.g., running, sniffing, playing), and enjoy a healthy endorphin rush. Exercise helps dogs feel more satisfied and more sleepy, so they will be more likely to relax when left alone.

Exercise your dog at least several times per week and rotate activities (e.g., long walks, hiking, puzzle toys, OC Working Dogs training classes) to keep them engaged and interested.

#3: Rehearse controlled or supervised separation with your dog

Separation training begins with brief, controlled exposures to being alone. Although you may be tempted to spend every waking moment with your new puppy or recently adopted dog, intense closeness can backfire and result in a dependent, insecure dog who is afraid to be alone.

Build your dog’s confidence by introducing separation slowly and gradually, which may initially involve simply leaving the room while your dog is preoccupied with a treat or toy, and then moving to a different floor, or stepping outside. As long as your dog remains calm, continue to vary the time or distance apart.

If possible, ask someone to supervise your dog or puppy during your absence, or use a nanny cam or doorbell camera to remotely monitor their behavior.

During the training process, be aware of nonverbal cues that may signal your departure (e.g., picking up your keys, putting on your shoes, saying “Goodbye”). If you are unpredictable, you can possibly avoid creating a trigger or departure cue that upsets your dog. Also, avoid dramatic departures and arrivals (e.g., kissing or hugging your dog, promising to return quickly) to prevent unnecessary stress.

#4: Provide your dog with positive distractions

Safe, long-lasting toys (e.g., a food-stuffed frozen Kong and other hollow toys) can provide a healthy mental workout and positively distract your dog. Create a positive emotional response to your departure and to your pet’s crate by offering these toys any time you practice separation behavior or are leaving your pet.

Always select an appropriately-sized toy to prevent choking, and routinely inspect toys for wear and tear. 

#5: Reduce stress and promote a calm environment for your dog

No one wants to be left alone in a stressful or chaotic environment, including your dog. Whenever possible, keep your dog’s care routine consistent. Predictable patterns, such as the time your pet eats, exercises, or receives your attention can help puppies and dogs feel confident and safe. 

When change or disruption are unavoidable, maintain as much normalcy as possible, and incorporate stress-reducing tools and strategies such as calming pheromones, classical music, pressure wraps, and positive reinforcement training.

Help for dogs with separation anxiety

If you suspect your dog or puppy is suffering with separation anxiety, schedule a veterinary appointment. Separation anxiety signs (e.g., nervousness around the owner’s departure, frantic behavior, destructiveness, barrier frustration, house soiling) can have medical causes, so always begin with a full physical exam. 

Depending on the separation anxiety severity, management can require a multi-modal approach that starts with building a confident canine and involves medication, stress-reduction, and behavior modification. Help your dog learn independence, obedience, and more at OC Working Dogs. Contact us to discuss your dog’s training and behavior needs.